In Depth

Except for Mount Mitchell and Mount Craig, the highest mountain peaks in eastern North America are found in the Smokies—the most massive mountain uplift in the East and one of the oldest land areas on Earth. Sixteen summits rise more than 6,000 feet, and the main ridge does not drop below 5,000 feet for a distance of 36 miles.

Few places in the United States have such a variety of vegetation. Because the mountains catch the region's copious rainfall, they support an exceptionally wide variety of plant species, including more than 100 native trees. Eastern deciduous trees and red spruce constitute the park's 120,000 acres of old-growth forest. Much of the remainder is second growth.

Northern conifers, mainly spruce and fir, dominate the higher elevations; at intermediate heights grow hardwoods typical of the Northeast. Some mountaintops are covered only with grass or shrubs and thus are known as “balds.”

Many streams are bordered with rhododendron, and in certain areas, such as on Gregory Bald, flame azalea grows in profusion. Rhododendron and sand myrtle are scattered throughout the mountain summits and knife-edged ridges. Dogwood and wildflowers usually bloom from mid-March to mid-May; other blossoms create spectacular displays into July.

Wildlife was scarce when the park was established in 1934, but hunting has since been outlawed and many species are recovering. Deer often are observed in Cades Cove, and ruffed grouse, wild turkeys and bears live in the park.